Violence is a potential safety concern wherever people congregate. Employees are sometimes at risk of violence when they are on the job. They could experience conflict with a co-worker or worse, aggressive conduct from members of the general public.
Service sector employees may encounter unstable people or those in the process of committing a crime. Teachers might end up injured if they try to intervene in an altercation between students. Hospital workers can sustain major injuries caused by patients with mental health challenges or those having adverse medication reactions.
Violent incidents on the job can cause a variety of serious injuries. How do employees cover those expenses?
Workers’ compensation benefits can help
Whether violence was the result of a conflict between teammates or a customer trying to commit a crime, workers’ compensation may cover the employee’s losses. Direct responsibility on the part of an employer is not necessary for a worker’s compensation claim.
Employees don’t need proof that their employer may have violated safety regulations or done something negligent. They simply need evidence that their medical condition is a result of their job tasks.
Those hurt by acts of violence while working are often eligible for workers’ compensation benefits. Workers’ compensation medical coverage can fully pay for the cost of necessary medical care. Workers may also be eligible for disability benefits until they improve enough to return to work.
Those recovering from physical injuries and mental trauma after a violent incident on the job may need help managing a workers’ compensation claim. Learning about benefits and securing the right support can help workers get the benefits they need after a violent work incident.